Why I'm an Advent Christian

Some people I call Christmas Christians. The most important thing about their Christian faith is believing that the Baby Jesus is Immanuel, God with us. Their favorite hymn is "Joy to the World."

Others I'd label Lenten Christians, whose faith revolves around sin, guilt and forgiveness. Their symbol is the cross.

Then there are Pentecost Christians, on fire with the Spirit's energy and gifts. I'm an Advent Christian. I appreciate my brother and sister Christians, but I have a different way of seeing and experiencing the faith.

Advent Christians believe Christ came, but still we sing "Oh, Come, Oh, Come, Emmanuel." We believe that in Christ the kingdom of God has dawned, but still we eagerly pray "thy kingdom come" because we long for a world that is still to come. Exile, longing, watchfulness and waiting resonate with us.

For the four years I lived in Madagascar I was a "stranger in a strange land." Now, nearly 20 years later, I often feel like an alien in my own country -- a society dominated by economics and entertainment. The biblical words come back to me: "Here we have no abiding city. We seek one to come" (Hebrews 13:14).

I've lived a good life for more than 50 years, enjoying the blessings of family and friends, the beauties of the earth, the riches of art and music and our spiritual heritage. But at times I still ask, "Is that all there is?"

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